Hiv vaccine

HIV Integrase is an enzyme produced by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) that enables its genetic material to be integrated into the DNA of the infected cell.

Function

HIV Integrase is a key component in the lifecycle of the HIV virus. It is responsible for the integration of the viral DNA into the host cell's DNA, a critical step in the viral replication process. This integration allows the virus to persist in the host cell and makes the viral DNA a permanent part of the host cell's genetic material.

Structure

The structure of HIV Integrase is composed of three domains: the N-terminal domain, the catalytic core domain, and the C-terminal domain. The N-terminal domain contains a zinc-binding motif, while the catalytic core domain contains the active site of the enzyme. The C-terminal domain is involved in DNA binding.

Inhibitors

Integrase inhibitors are a class of antiretroviral drugs that are designed to block the action of integrase. By preventing the integration of the viral DNA into the host cell's DNA, these drugs can stop the virus from replicating and spreading. Examples of integrase inhibitors include Raltegravir, Elvitegravir, and Dolutegravir.

Clinical significance

The discovery and understanding of HIV Integrase have had significant implications for the treatment of HIV/AIDS. The development of integrase inhibitors has provided a new line of defense against the virus, particularly for patients who have developed resistance to other classes of antiretroviral drugs.

See also

• HIV/AIDS
• Antiretroviral drug
• Viral replication